Mixing Family and Business Podcast

Ep: 44 - Thriving Through Change Lessons on Adaptability in Family-Owned Enterprises

Ready to dive into the real-world chaos and rewards of mixing family and business? In this episode, I sit down with Tom, Shirley, and Kim for an honest, lighthearted look at how each of us differs from our parents—not just at home, but where it matters most: at work. We talk about the unexpected curveballs you face in a family business, and how adaptability is a skill you can’t afford to skip. From learning on the fly—like jumping from store manager to meat cutter in a single phone call—to stepping into leadership roles with zero preparation, we open up about what it really takes to succeed when everyone in the family wears more than one hat. You’ll hear our stories of moving to new towns, starting over, and relying on support networks both inside and outside the business. Whether you’re running your own operation, working with family, or just want to get inspired by real strategies for growth, you’ll pick up practical tips on staying flexible, thinking young, and keeping an open mind—lessons that get more valuable with every year (and every business). Hit play, get motivated, and remember: in family business, change isn’t just inevitable—it’s your secret weapon. If you’ve got questions or topics you want to hear more about, drop me a line at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com. Thanks for listening, and stay awesome!
Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com. 
Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ep: 43 - What I Wish I Knew At 30

In this episode, I sit down with Shirley, Tom, and Kim for some honest, lighthearted stories about growing up in big families, sibling rivalries, and how childhood dynamics evolve into working relationships as adults. We open up about the lessons we’ve learned running multiple businesses together—what we wish we’d known at 30, the business mistakes we don’t regret, and why neither success nor struggle ever truly has a finish line. From Sunday family picnics to the importance of hiring smart, learning continuously, and embracing change, we dive deep into the realities and rewards of building both a family and business legacy. If you’re curious about how to balance it all, laugh at your missteps, and keep moving forward, this conversation is for you. As always, feel free to reach out at bryan@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com or kim@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Mixing Family and Business. Let’s keep growing together—family, business, and all. Stay ambitious!
Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com. 
Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ep: 42 - Shifts in Parental Relationships and Business Wisdom

In this week's episode of the Client Podcast, I'm delving deep into the intricate dance of mixing family and business. I sit down with Shirley, Kim, and Tom to explore how our relationships with parents evolve as we grow older. It's a journey that influences both personal life and business endeavors. Listen as Tom and Shirley share poignant memories, and Kim provides a modern take on balancing family dynamics with professional responsibilities.
I also unravel the art of keeping teams engaged in diverse business environments. Discover the power of trust, delegation, and the genuine interest in team members that drive productivity and satisfaction. Kim and Tom offer practical strategies to craft a business culture where everyone thrives. Whether you're managing a family business or looking to harmonize personal and professional realms, this episode is packed with relatable stories and insights.
Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes that bridge the worlds of family and business. If this resonates with someone you know, share the knowledge! Let’s keep building a world where running a family business is both heartfelt and successful.
Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com. 
Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ep: 41 - How Childhood Games Teach Us About Business Challenges

In this episode of the Mixing Family and Business Podcast, I dive into the everyday challenges and triumphs of balancing different business ventures while maintaining a fulfilling personal life. Joined by my insightful guests, Shirley and Tom, we reminisce about the games we played in grade school, like Red Rover and kickball, and draw unexpected parallels to the strategies we employ in our businesses today. We discuss how prioritization, effective delegation, and innovative problem-solving can transform feelings of overwhelm into opportunities for growth. Through our conversation, I explore how essential it is to create a business culture that embraces adaptability and encourages teamwork. Whether you're just starting your entrepreneurial journey or seeking ways to refine your current practices, this episode offers valuable insights and strategies for achieving harmony between your work and home life. Join me and let's navigate the complexities of family and business together, uncovering ways to live a balanced and successful life.
Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com. 
Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ep: 40 - From Farming to Modern Business: A Family's Evolution

In this episode of the Mixing Family and Business Podcast we take you on a journey through the intricate balancing act of running multiple businesses while staying rooted in family values. Joined by our insightful guests Shirley, Tom, and Kim, we delve into their rich family stories, tracing their fathers' ventures from farming to grocery stores and beyond. These narratives set the stage for a deeper exploration of how we all strive to maintain equilibrium between resources, customer experiences, and profitability.
We tackle the tough questions: How do we offer a five-star guest experience without stretching our budgets too thin? How do we grow top line sales while ensuring our bottom line stays healthy? These real-life challenges are part of the puzzle every business owner faces. Through open discussions, we exchange strategies on navigating these conflicting numbers and making imperative investment decisions that can make or break a business.
Join us in this heartfelt and enlightening conversation as we share insights that aim to inspire and equip you with practical approaches to finding your business balance. Tune in and let's continue to grow together, with family at the forefront of our success.
Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com. 
Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ep: 39 - Balancing Business Investments with Memorable Customer Journeys

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Mixing Family & Business Podcast! I'm Brian, and today I'm thrilled to explore the delicate art of mixing family and business with our insightful guests Tom, Shirley, and Kim. We kick things off by sharing some enchanting tales from our childhoods, including gems like "Susan in the Rain" and the classic "Hardy Boys." These stories serve as a nostalgic backdrop as we delve into today's core discussion.
In this episode, I take you on a journey to understand how we determine when to invest in new projects and enhance customer service within our businesses. Our guests share their invaluable experiences and industry insights on improving customer interactions and staying ahead of the curve. Together, we unravel the importance of providing memorable experiences for our customers and the strategic decisions required to keep a business thriving, from capital investments to boosting team performance.
Join me for this insightful journey as we work towards elevating our business approach, ensuring every guest leaves with a smile. I can’t wait for you to hear the pearls of wisdom shared in this episode. So tune in, and let’s continue this journey of growth and inspiration together!
Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com. 
Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ep: 38 - How Viral Trends and Social Media Shape Business Systems

I'm thrilled to invite you to this episode of the Client Podcast, where I welcome Shirley, Tom, and Kim to an engaging discussion on blending business systems with family dynamics. We kick things off by reminiscing about the first major news stories that left an impression on us, from the launch of Sputnik to the infamous Watergate scandal, and how these events shaped our perspectives over the years.
In this episode, I delve into the importance of creating efficient systems within a business—all while recognizing when it's time to retire those that no longer serve us. It's all about finding that sweet spot where modern innovation meets traditional practices. Through thought-provoking conversations and real-world examples, we uncover the strategies that not only keep a business running smoothly but also strengthen family ties.
Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com. 
Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ep: 37 - Business Efficiency: Streamlining Meetings and Communication

Join me, Brian, as I take you on a journey through the unique blend of family dynamics and business operations in this episode of the Mixing Family and Business Podcast. Together with my guests Tom, Shirley, and Kim, we reminisce about our school days and share nostalgic stories about lunchtime memories that are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. From one-room schoolhouses with egg sandwiches to Catholic schools serving family-style meals, our past experiences offer a charming glimpse into how those days shaped our present.
In this episode, I also delve into effective communication strategies within family-operated businesses. Discover how we manage our time, schedule calls, and prioritize efficiency while respecting one another's boundaries. Learn why being early is as crucial as punctuality and how structured communication aids in running successful family ventures.
Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com. 
Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ep: 36 - When is the Right Time

Excited to dive into the dynamics of mixing family and business? Join me, Brian, on the Mixing Family and Business Podcast, where in this episode, I unravel what it truly takes to run multiple businesses! Listen as I, along with guests Tom, Shirley, Kim, and a surprise guest, reflect on our first encounters with breakthrough technologies that have had a lasting impact on our lives and businesses. Discover how timing plays a crucial role in adopting new technologies and strategies—hear from our guests' experiences, from early adoption of QuickBooks to age-old challenges with cash versus credit, and even the ongoing evolution of AI. This episode is packed with engaging stories of trial and error, different perspectives on change, and real-world insights. Whether it's about embracing cashless societies or deciding when to leap into new business ideas, I've got you covered! Tune in now for a fun, nostalgic, and insightful journey through time that will help guide your decisions in today's rapidly changing world. Stay tuned, stay adaptable, and remember—change is the only constant. Stay awesome and see you in the next episode!
Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com. 
Make sure to check out our website to learn more!

Ep: 35 - Family Entrepreneur Insights: Making Numbers and Life Work Together

Join me on the Client Podcast as I dive into the intriguing world of balancing family and business, alongside my insightful guests Shirley, Kim, and Tom. In this episode, we share the transformative life lessons that have defined our journeys—whether it’s conquering shyness, realizing the impact of surrounding oneself with successful people, or embracing the idea that time is fleeting and should be cherished. We also explore the essential numbers and reports that drive business success, discussing our approaches to budgeting, tracking, and analyzing key financial metrics. Tune in to enhance your understanding of managing the complexities of family and business together, as we uncover valuable strategies and insights that have helped us thrive.
Got a story to share or a question you'd like answered in a future episode? Email Brian at brian@mixingfamilyandbusiness.com. 
Make sure to check out our website to learn more!